Physical Assessment - Head and Neck Flashcards
Lymphadenopathy (adenopathy)
enlarged lymph node(s)
Lymphadenitis
inflamed and enlarged lymph node(s)
Lymphangitis
inflammation of the lymphatics that drain an area of infection; tender erythematous streaks extend proximally from the infected area; regional nodes may also be tender
Lymphedema
edematous swelling due to excess accumulation of lymph fluid in tissues caused by inadequate lymph drainage
Lymphangioma
congenital malformation of dilated lymphatics
Shotty Nodes
small non-tender nodes that feel like BBs or buckshot under the skin
Fluctuant Nodes
wavelike motion that is felt when the node is palpated
Matted Nodes
group of nodes that feel connected and seem to move as a unit
Reminders about Nodes
- A hard, fixed, painless node suggests a malignant process.
* The more tender a node, the more likely it is an inflammatory process.
* Nodes do not pulsate; arteries do.
* A palpable supraclavicular node on the left (Virchow node) is a significant clue to thoracic or abdominal malignancy.
* Slow nodal enlargement over weeks and months suggests a benign process; rapid enlargement without signs of inflammation suggests malignancy.
Sweet, fruity
Diabetic ketoacidosis; starvation ketosis
Fishy, stale
Uremia (trimethylamines)
Ammonia-like
Uremia (ammonia)
Musty fish, clover
Fetor hepaticus: hepatic failure, portal vein thrombosis, portacaval shunts
Foul, feculent
Intestinal obstruction
Foul, putrid
Nasal/sinus pathology: infection, foreign body, cancer; respiratory infections: empyema, lung abscess, bronchiectasis
